Joe Walsh: “The Eagles Are Alive and Well, and I’m Back”

Yesterday (June 5) Joe Walsh released 'Analog Man,' his first solo album since 1992's Songs for a Dying Planet.' Produced by Jeff Lynne, 'Analog Man' features everything we expect from the veteran rocker, and, in a new interview, he says he wouldn't have it any other way.

"When I decided to do the record, I listened to what's out there, and I couldn't figure out quite how I fit in," he told Washington D.C.'s BIG 100.3. "I just decided to do a Joe Walsh album and put it out because that's who I am. I reckon that's the way to go."

Walsh also confirmed Glenn Frey's statements earlier in the week that the Eagles are gearing up for a big 2013 in celebration of the band's 40th anniversary. As of now, the plans call for a DVD documentary and a tour. "I saw parts of it yesterday and it's pretty amazing," Walsh continued. "Based on our 40th anniversary, we're going to do kind of a retrospective and put the documentary out, and then tour as 'Happy Birthday to Us' tour, and that's all set for next year. That's the plan. So the Eagles are alive and well, and Glenn is correct."

The guitarist then left his fans with a note of optimism. "I'm 18 years sober. I'm happy. I'm confident. I've got something to say 'cause it's been a while. Yeah, the message is 'I'm back and it won't be 20 years for the next Joe Walsh album.'"